This year, the Yotes are following the system much more closely. And we've got a goalie that revels in competition, rather than run away from it. Smitty is a better teammate and professional in just about every way.

Former Coyote Mike Johnson just predicted the Coyotes system will frustrate Chicago and Coyotes would prevail

That's exactly why they were my preferred opponent. Home ice is just a bonus.

Quote:

Originally Posted by XX

This year, the Yotes are following the system much more closely. And we've got a goalie that revels in competition, rather than run away from it. Smitty is a better teammate and professional in just about every way.

As Phoenix fans are very much aware of, the playoffs is largely a goaltender's duel. I feel very good about Smith vs Crawford right now.

I like the Coyotes, too, but Crawford looked very good today against the Wings. He looked on top of his game. With the type of speed that Chicago possesses, Boedker will play a huge role in this series.

Former Coyote Mike Johnson just predicted the Coyotes system will frustrate Chicago and Coyotes would prevail

Really...? Despite bein a former Coyote he's never been really seemed biased towards the team. Anything but really. Pretty pragmatic about stuff. Kinda why he was one of my favorite Yotes. Anyway, to hear that from him is interesting.

Personally, I have no problem starting Thursday. Plenty of rest, sure. Too much? We'll see, half the teams will deal with the same thing. With Smith ending the season on a back to back, I'd have no problem with an extra day of rest. Get Aucoin back hopefully. Morris this time, he didn't play at all last playoffs. Hell of a Dman in OEL, who is >than Jovo, obviously. Then hope Roszival physical presence holds up, without having to force Schlemko or Stone in there.

Not that it mattered given the final result, but Morris was awful awful awful last season. At least this season he's been decent the last month or so. Unfortunately he and Yandle are competing to see who can replace Jovo. And I don't mean his minutes.